To Die To Live by Jason Hershey

Jason Hershey has written his debut novel for the Young Adult market. I was provided with a copy to read and review for the author and I am glad I did, it’s a real page turner and I read it in one sitting.

The lead character of the book is Thelonious Mitchell, known as Theo, adopted by his aunt and uncle following his mother’s death. Theo is a teenager with issues, he is a loner and doesn’t have the confidence to make friends easily. One day he bumps into Draven at school and they soon become good friends.

This short story tells of friendship, heartache and loss and determination to make the most of the life we are given.

Whilst I enjoyed the story, I felt that if the author had given the characters more depth the reader would be able to feel a stronger connection. A fuller backstory would perhaps bring the characters to life. However, the lack of a backstory allows the reader to build their own in which they may relate to the character. Either way, you need to read it!

I would like to thank Jason Hershey for the opportunity to read and review this novel.

Synopsis

Thelonious “Theo” Mitchell is a down on his luck teenager, wandering aimlessly through life with no desire or focus.

When tragedy strikes, he is taken in by his aunt and uncle. Thrown into a new school with unfamiliar surroundings, he befriends the class “troublemaker”.

After yet another tragedy, will Theo fall victim to life, or use the tragedy as a spark and motivation to embrace all that life has to offer?

Jason Hershey has been a teacher for 10 years, teaching everything from early childhood to high school. He has a BS in Elementary Education from Bethel College in Kansas. His love of writing was evident from an early age. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, he now resides in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio with his family. This is his first book.